Playing a beggar on screen is never easy. Such characters have a tendency to make actors shed their glamourous image and step into roles that are full of struggle, vulnerability, and depth. Here’s a list of impressive performances where Indian actors played beggars — and where you can catch these emotionally-charged movies.

7 Actors Who Played Beggars:

1. Amitabh Bachchan – Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)

In one of his time-honored performances, Amitabh fakes a blind beggar in a hilarious yet moving scene. His vitality and sense of timing made it unforgettable.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

2. Kamal Haasan – Punnagai Mannan (1986)

Kamal Haasan’s one-minute but sincere performance as a beggar in this romance testifies to his immense ability to communicate even in minor roles.
Where to Watch: YouTube (Rental), Amazon Prime (Chosen regions)

3. Vikram – Pithamagan (2003)

Vikram’s subtle performance of a socially withdrawn orphan boy raised in a graveyard is hard-hitting and unforgettable. His performance won him the National Award.
Where to Watch: Sun NXT, MX Player

4. Rajkummar Rao – Trapped (2016)

Albeit not exactly a beggar, Rajkummar’s performance as someone trapped in a high-rise with no water and food defines urban poverty and survival.
Where to Watch: Zee5

5. Dhanush – Kubera (2025)

Dhanush is an enigmatic beggar in this new thriller. His rugged looks and brooding attitude have already generated massive buzz.
Where to Watch: Releasing in theatres; coming to Netflix after theatrical release

6. Vijay Antony – Bichagadu (2016)

For this drama based on emotions, a millionaire becomes a beggar to save his mother. Vijay Antony’s natural acting reached millions of people.
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar, YouTube

7. Manoj Bajpayee – Gali Guleiyan (2017)

This psychological thriller has Manoj playing a paranoid man living in the narrow alleys of Delhi, emotionally and mentally broken.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

ALSO READ: Kubera Cast Jaw-Dropping Remuneration List Exposed

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